Roundleaf greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia)

For Smilax rotundifolia, the watering principle is to ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Pour approximately 500 ml of water at each watering session until the water reaches about an inch into the soil without creating puddles.

Smilax rotundifolia thrives in partial sun to full sun conditions, benefiting from around 4-6 hours of sunlight daily, ideally with morning sun and afternoon shade. This ideal range allows photosynthesis and energy production, promoting healthy growth and flowering.

The best temperature range for growing Smilax rotundifolia is between 60°F and 77°F. This range provides the optimal conditions for this plant to thrive, supporting both vegetative growth and reproductive processes. These temperatures help maintain the plant's cellular functions, ensuring photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and water regulation are all at their peak efficiency. Achieving and maintaining such temperatures can result in robust and healthy plant development.

Smilax rotundifolia thrives in well-drained soil that prevents water logging. This type of soil minimizes root rot and encourages healthier root growth, which is essential for nutrient absorption and overall plant vigor. This plant doesn't require overly rich soil. A moderate amount of organic matter suffices, ensuring that the plant receives adequate nutrients without suffering from nutrient burn, leading to balanced growth. While the soil should be well-drained, it must also retain some moisture to provide the plant with consistent hydration. This balance supports sustained growth and prevents the plant from frequent wilting.

For Smilax rotundifolia, an appropriate fertilizer amount is crucial to its health and growth. Typically, a diluted liquid fertilizer at a ratio of 1:4 is recommended during the growing season. For solid fertilizers, use about a handful per plant per application.

Avoid pruning during extreme cold or drought conditions. Instead, opt for mild days where weather stress on plants is minimized. Pruning early in the season allows the plant to recover and flourish with the coming stronger light and growth conditions. Start at the base of the plant and work your way up, removing any dead or diseased wood first. Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle about a quarter-inch above a bud or branch junction, ensuring new growth develops in the desired directions. Prune away excess vine length to keep the plant manageable, focusing especially on unwanted runners that may climb over other plants or structures. This keeps Smilax rotundifolia's vigorous growth under control, preventing it from overtaking garden spaces.